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MAKURDI: The Ochi’Idoma His Royal Majesty (HRM), Elaigwu Obagaji John, has sympathized with residents of Otukpo, in Otukpo Local Government Area (LGA), of Benue State, over the rainstorm that wreaked havoc in the town.
The rainstorm that came with flooding on Friday night damaged properties, business premises, and homes, rendering many persons in the town without shelter.
In a message to residents of the town, on Sunday, through the Mayor of Otukpo, Chief Aloga Ogbogo, the royal father lamented that although the rains are expected to come with good things, it has brought about hardship upon the people.
The Ochi’Idoma pointed out that in view of the magnitude of damage caused by the rainstorm, he was appealing to the Federal and State Governments, as well as the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), to come to the rescue of victims of the incident.
According to the Mayor, “It is with a heavy heart that I address you on behalf of His Royal Majesty, Agabaidu, Elaigwu Odogbo Obagaji John, the Och’Idoma, and the Idoma Area Traditional Council, following the aftermath of yesterday’s heavy downpour in Otukpo.
“What we had all welcomed as the first rain of the year—a sign of relief from the intense heat and the beginning of a new planting season—has unfortunately brought unexpected hardship to many households within our community.
“Several homes have been damaged, businesses disrupted, and properties built through years of dedication and hard work destroyed by the flooding caused by the heavy rainfall. Sadly, many of our neighbors have been left without shelter as a result of this disaster.
“To those who have lost their homes, businesses, or sense of security, please know that we stand with you in this difficult moment. No one should have to watch their livelihood swept away in a single evening.
“I assure you that the traditional institution shares deeply in your pain and remains committed to supporting every effort aimed at bringing relief and recovery to our people”, he stated.
In his appeal to residents, the paramount ruler said, “The extent of the damage is unfortunately beyond what our local resources alone can adequately address.
“Therefore, we are making an urgent appeal to the Benue State Government and the Federal Government, through the National Emergency Management Agency, for immediate intervention in the following areas.”
Some of the areas that the traditional council solicited for the intervention of the government are in the provision of food items, blankets, and temporary shelter materials for displaced families.
Other areas are the expansion and rehabilitation of drainage systems within Otukpo town to prevent future flooding as the rainy season intensifies, as well as the establishment of a special intervention fund to assist affected traders and homeowners in rebuilding their lives and livelihoods.
He, however, advised residents to clear gutters and drainage channels around their homes and business premises to allow for the free flow of water, just as he warned them not to take shelter under weak structures or large trees during storms.
Also, encouraging the residents, the royal father said, “Otukpo has always been known for its resilience and unity. We have faced challenges before, and by standing together and supporting one another, we will rebuild our community stronger and better.”
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